Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Chimichanga

Crispy, Creamy & Irresistibly Indulgent

Few desserts manage to feel both comforting and exciting at the same time, but the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Chimichanga achieves exactly that. This creative fusion dessert brings together the warm, spiced sweetness of cinnamon rolls, the rich creaminess of cheesecake filling, and the crisp exterior inspired by the classic chimichanga technique. The result is a dessert that is indulgent, playful, and deeply satisfying.

Perfect for brunch spreads, dessert tables, or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe transforms familiar ingredients into something truly special. By baking instead of frying, it delivers a golden, crispy texture without heaviness, making it approachable for home bakers of all skill levels. Each bite offers a contrast of textures: flaky and crisp on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, with warm cinnamon notes tying everything together.

This dessert is especially appealing because it feels luxurious while remaining simple to prepare. With refrigerated cinnamon rolls and a quick cheesecake-style filling, it comes together in under an hour, yet tastes like something you would find at a specialty bakery or café.

What Makes This Dessert Unique

The Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Chimichanga stands out because it combines three beloved dessert elements into one cohesive dish:

• Cinnamon rolls provide sweetness, spice, and a tender dough base
• Cheesecake filling adds richness, creaminess, and balance
• Chimichanga-style rolling and baking creates a crisp, golden exterior

Instead of serving cinnamon rolls in their usual spiral form, this recipe reimagines them as filled, rolled pastries. Flattening and wrapping the dough allows the cream cheese filling to stay enclosed, creating a warm, gooey center that contrasts beautifully with the crisp outer layer.

This dessert is also highly versatile in presentation. It can be served plainly, dusted with powdered sugar, or finished with drizzles of sauce and whipped cream, making it suitable for both casual and more elegant occasions.

Ingredients

All ingredients listed below are exactly the same as those you provided, with no substitutions or additions.

• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4–6 large refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 2–3 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing)

Optional for serving:

• Caramel sauce
• Chocolate sauce
• Whipped cream
• Additional powdered sugar

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a small mixing bowl, combine the following:

• Softened cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon

Beat the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy. This step is important, as a well-mixed filling ensures even distribution and a silky texture inside each chimichanga. Set the filling aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

Remove the refrigerated cinnamon rolls from their packaging and gently unroll each one slightly. Using a rolling pin, carefully flatten each roll into a rectangular shape. Take care not to tear the dough; slow, gentle pressure works best.

Flattening the rolls allows them to be filled and rolled easily while keeping the layers intact.

Step 4: Fill and Shape the Chimichangas

Spoon a small amount of the prepared cream cheese mixture into the center of each flattened cinnamon roll. Avoid overfilling, as too much filling can leak during baking.

Fold the sides inward and roll tightly from one end to the other, forming a neat chimichanga shape. Place each roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Brush with Butter

Using a pastry brush, generously brush the tops of each chimichanga with melted butter. This step helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior and enhances the overall flavor.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chimichangas are golden brown and fully cooked through. The exterior should be crisp, while the interior remains soft and creamy.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Remove the chimichangas from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Finish with optional toppings such as caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for added indulgence.Tips for Best Results

• Use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling
• Do not overfill the rolls to prevent leakage during baking
• Seal the edges well when rolling to keep the filling enclosed
• Serve warm to enjoy the gooey cheesecake center at its best
• Brush generously with butter for maximum crispness and flavor

Serving Suggestions

The Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Chimichanga is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• As a dessert centerpiece for brunch or holiday gatherings
• Paired with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat
• Plated individually with sauce drizzles for an elegant presentation
• Served family-style with assorted toppings so guests can customize

This dessert works equally well for casual enjoyment or more festive occasions.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can assemble the chimichangas a few hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best texture.

Can I reheat leftovers?

Yes. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the exterior.

Do I have to use all the icing from the cinnamon rolls?

The icing is optional for serving. You may drizzle it on top after baking or omit it if using other toppings.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Use a moderate amount of filling, roll tightly, and place the seam side down on the baking sheet.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, simply increase the number of cinnamon rolls and filling proportionally. This makes it ideal for entertaining.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Chimichanga is a dessert that perfectly blends comfort and creativity. With its crisp, buttery exterior and rich, cinnamon-infused cheesecake center, it delivers a memorable eating experience that feels indulgent without being complicated.

Ideal for home bakers, brunch hosts, or anyone looking to elevate store-bought ingredients into something extraordinary, this recipe proves that simple ideas can lead to stunning results. Served warm and customized with your favorite toppings, it’s a dessert that invites indulgence and guarantees satisfaction.

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